The Petroleum Exploration and Production Association of New Zealand (PEPANZ) has released its latest industry reputation survey, showing improved public understanding of the oil and gas industry in New Zealand.

“It’s pleasing to see increasing understanding and that 60% of respondents have either a favourable or neutral view of our industry, with less than a third having an unfavourable view. It shows that most New Zealanders sensibly recognise the important role oil and gas plays in our economy and society,” says PEPANZ CEO Cameron Madgwick.

The UMR survey of 1000 respondents was conducted in December 2017. Some of the key findings include:

– Knowledge: respondents who knew ‘a lot’ or ‘fair amount’ about the industry was 29%, an 8% increase from March 2016.

– Importance: 47% or respondents believe the New Zealand oil and gas industry is important to the economy.

– By far the biggest change from the previous survey in March 2016 was a big increase in level of knowledge in Canterbury (37% – up from 16%).

“The survey shows only a minority of respondents have an unfavourable view of the industry.

“We are working hard to address legitimate concerns about climate change – a global challenge that requires a coordinate and planned approach.

“Natural gas is a clean, lower-emitting fuel that has a major role to play in reducing our net emissions by displacing less efficient fuels. Energy efficiency, new technologies and carbon offsetting will also be important and PEPANZ has established a Net-Zero Emissions Committee to advance these issues.

“It’s pleasing to see an overall increased level of knowledge about our industry, and this is especially the case in Canterbury. This is likely to reflect some of the attention last year around the potential of the Barque natural gas prospect near Oamaru.

“These results will help focus our efforts to communicate with the wider public on how our industry works and the challenges and opportunities ahead of us.”